“The words of the LORD are pure words, like silver tried in a furnace of the earth, purified seven times.” Psalm 12:6
This verse is one of many that conveys the absolute reliability, the pure holiness, and the perfection of the word of God. When you refine a precious metal such as silver you melt it down and the impurities can then be filtered out. Doing the process seven times is a bit overkill! But that is the point. The word of God is a precious treasure that is absolutely pure.
Elsewhere in the Scripture the word of God is described as light that gives us understanding and shows us the right path. It is also described as food that nourishes us, strengthens us, and gives us life. In Hebrews 4:12 it is compared to a sword. The word of God is a sword that judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 also calls the word living and active. This is because the Holy Spirit, who is God, works through His word to accomplish His purposes.
Through the word, God gives His people the wisdom to apply His word to every moment of life. He convicts us of our sins and leads us to forgiveness and reconciliation. God speaks to His people through His written word. It is how we know God and can be assured that He knows us.
A significant portion of the word of God are promises that He makes to His people. In Psalm 12, God is promising to protect and exalt His faithful ones in a time where the wicked are everywhere, prospering, and oppressing the faithful. God declares in Psalm 12:5, “Now I will arise.” Now it is time for God to act. He will come to the defense of His people and throw down the wicked. It is in this context that our verse is given. It is meant to be an encouragement to the people that His word is sure, it will not fail.
In our day the wicked are everywhere, prospering, and oppressing the faithful. If we want God to arise and come to the defense of His people, we need to be confident in the word of the Lord. We should view the word of the Lord as silver, tried in a furnace of the earth seven times. It is a treasure that is absolutely reliable and pure in holiness. It is sure perfection that we can put our full and complete trust in. Arise, O Lord, show the nations that they are but men and defend your bride according to Thy awesome word!
Glory to the Lord of hosts!
His mercy endures forever!
Pastor Flynn
